SPYSHOTS: Next-gen Infiniti QX50 spotted testing

The second-generation Infiniti QX50 has been spotted in Arizona, United States, as the crossover undergoes testing while wearing black camouflage. Previewed by the QX50 Concept from this year’s Detroit Auto Show, the test mule seen here appears to retain some of the styling cues of the show car, with a few tweaks to be production ready.

At the front, the Infiniti grille is retained, flanked by a pair of headlights that are reminiscent of those found on the Q60 coupe. The corner intakes on the front bumper are also reshaped here, each with a fog lamp beneath them. Other changes from the concept include a more prominent lower intake, previously a large skid plate.

The QX50’s profile also appears to be carried over, with Infiniti masking off the C-pillar in an attempt to hide what should the kink beneath it, as seen on the concept. The character line that originates from the front bonnet, proceeding through the door handles beneath the beltline, is also seen here. If that isn’t enough, even the wheels look like the fan blade units from the Detroit debutant.

A view of the rear shows us a set of stylish taillights, which are two-piece units with part of them being found on the tailgate, just like on the concept. The exhaust outlets aren’t as pleasing to look at but as this is merely a prototype, they should be changed to closer mimic those on the concept.

Infiniti has hinted that its new variable compression ratio 2.0L VC-Turbo engine may make its way into the QX50 when it goes on sale sometime in 2018, although we’ll have to wait for the carmaker to reveal the car in full for more details. Other technologies that are said to feature include autonomous driving systems, likely adopted from Nissan’s ProPilot.

Originating from the corporate world with a background in finance and economics, Gerard’s strong love for cars led him to take the plunge into the automotive media industry. It was only then did he realise that there are more things to a car than just horsepower count.

You can either post as a guest or have an option to register. Among the advantages of registering is once a name has been registered, a guest cannot post using that name. If you have an account, please login before commenting. If you wish to have a profile photo next to your name, register at Gravatar using the same e-mail address you use to comment.